Silvus Technologies StreamCaster SC4200 has been chosen by the Harris Corporation as the radio to provide wireless command, control, and video operations for its T7 robotic system in support the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defense (MOD) Project STARTER.

Harris Corporation has won a contract upwards of 70 million dollars to support the UK MOD’s Project STARTER. The contract will require Harris to provide 56 T7 robotic platform which is designed to support explosive ordnance disposal (EOD). All 56 robots are due to be delivered and in service by December 2020, replacing the current Northrop Grumman Wheelbarrow Mk8B device.

The rugged construction and superb robustness of the StreamCaster radios allows T7 operators to more effectively defeat explosive threats, including improvised explosive devices (IEDs) from a safe stand-off distance.

“Silvus is thrilled for the opportunity to support Harris Corporation in bringing mission critical technology like this to the U.K. forces,” said Kasey Cooper, Director of Sales, Unmanned Systems. “The pairing of Silvus MN-MIMO Technology with the T7 robot will provide an unprecedented capability to overcome the growing threat IEDs pose to our friendly forces.”

Silvus and Harris look to get the program underway in 2018.

The T7 robotic systems will help defeat a wide variety of explosive threats, including improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and unexploded ordnances (UXO).

Harris has developed the T7 robot from the ground up to support the demanding requirements of commercial and military missions, including hazardous materials (HAZMAT) cleanup, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) and special weapons and tactics (SWAT) missions.

The robot provides operators with human-like dexterity and haptic force feedback from the robot arm to the remote-control handgrip. The T7’s interface provides ease of use for operators and unmatched command and control. Its precision control and dexterity shorten task completion time and improve mission effectiveness, and its rugged, automotive-grade track system provides the outstanding mobility and maneuverability required for rough terrain.

A variety of attachments enable use of standard-issue sensors, disruptors and tools that support a wide range of missions, including HAZMAT and the ability to disable and defeat IEDs planted inside vehicles (vehicle-borne improvised explosive device, VBIED).